In times past, fishing nets were made from grass, cotton, tree fibers, and flax. But the story’s different in today’s world as fishing nets are now generally made from rubber and nylon, although we still have some made of wool and silk.
And even though it goes without saying that getting the right fishing net can make or mar your fishing trip(s), the various types, shapes, and sizes of fishing nets in today’s market can be very baffling.
That said, we’re here to help you pinpoint the perfect fishing net for your needs by highlighting the five best fishing nets on the market, so stick around.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | BUBBA Landing Nets | EGO S1 Genesis | SF Fly Fishing Landing Net | PLUSINNO Fishing Net | KastKing Madbite Landing Net |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| Material | Carbon fiber handle with industrial-grade rubber coating | 100% Carbon fiber handle | Nylon mesh and rubberized handle | Nylon mesh and aluminum handle | Carbon fiber and aluminum handle with rubber coating |
| Net Size | Multiple sizes available | 17″, 19″, 21″, 24″, 26″, and 28″ hoops | 10.6″ x 14.6″ hoop size | 16″ x 13″ hoop size | 14″ x 18″ hoop size |
| Handle Length | Multiple sizes available | 29″ handle | 9.8″ handle | 27″ handle | 35″ handle |
| Durability | Heavy-duty construction, built to last for years | Durable and long-lasting design | Sturdy construction but not as durable as some others on the list | Sturdy construction but may not hold up as well as more expensive options | Strong and durable, designed to withstand heavy use |
| Weight | Varies depending on size, but generally lightweight | Lightweight design | Lightweight and easy to maneuver | Lightweight and easy to handle | Lightweight and easy to maneuver |
| Price | Mid-range to high-end | Mid-range | Budget-friendly | Budget-friendly | Mid-range |
| Special Features | Built-in ruler for measuring fish | Unique scoop design for easy fish removal | Magnetic release for easy one-handed operation | Collapsible design for easy storage | Tangle-free design for easy use |
The 5 Best Fishing Nets In 2023
Without further ado, here’s a thorough review of the features and capabilities of each of the five best fishing nets in 2023. We’re quite confident that one of them will suit your needs and budget.
1. BUBBA Landing Nets
The BUBBA Landing Nets are made in various options and sizes to suit the fishers/angler’s different needs.
But generally, the net boasts a 75 pounds rating as proof of its durability and strength, offering an enjoyable landing experience for big-sized fish for the dedicated angler.
The net hoop is made from aircraft aluminum, which comes in handy when you need a net to uphold a well-sized catch’s brutal strength.
The yoke of the net supports a die-cast aluminum black chrome which gives it a corrosion-resistant finish, and with its 2mm thick carbon fiber handle, sturdiness and durability of the net during use is guaranteed.
Its PVC-coated net enables you to sift through the waters to land your fish effortlessly, and thanks to its knotless feature, the net poses little to no harm to your catch, unlike traditional nets.
The build of the BUBBA landing nets’ various sizes makes them fit into a variety of fishing rod holders.
Pros:
- Corrosion-resistant
- Can withstand years of abuse
- Knotless net which makes it gentle on fishes
- Floats very well
- It fits into most rod holders
Cons:
- The handle doesn’t extend
- Non-detachable handle
- The net is not collapsible
Our Take
The BUBBA landing net’s capability to defy years of abuse and withstand the harshest of saltwater conditions makes it the ultimate companion if you’re in search of a net that will always come in handy to land a big catch wherever and whenever.
2. EGO S1 Genesis Floating Fishing Net
The EGO S1 Genesis is a net series that comes in four different net materials: nylon mesh, rubber-coated nylon mesh, PVC-coated nylon mesh, and rubber mesh.
The fishing net series consists of various sizes of detachable handles and net heads, and with a simple wrist twist, you can easily attach and reattach the handle length or net head size that is the right fit for your fishing needs.
One thing that pops out for us in the EGO S1 Genesis Floating Fishing net series is that owning the series eliminates the need to purchase other types and sizes of landing nets, which ultimately means you get to save money.
The Ego S1 Genesis features a strong and lightweight hexagonal extruded aluminum handle, which makes it extremely solid and long-lasting.
Its low-profile contoured grip gives you a firm grip on the net handle while also making for easy maneuverability, and backed up by its floating feature, you’re sure to never have to watch your net sink again.
The fishing net series supports a distinctive hoop design that makes the scooping and landing fish easy, fast, and stress-free.
Pros:
- Detachable handles and net heads
- Secured screwing of detachable handles and net heads
- Excellent buoyancy
Cons:
- The handle may not support big-sized fish
- Can be heavy for some users
Our Take
The diverse handle and net head options that you can pick from with the EGO S1 Genesis Floating Fishing Net series make this a good choice if you’re into multi-specie fishing.
3. SF Fly Fishing Landing Net
The SF Fly Fishing Net, which has a square-headed design, features a soft transparent rubber mesh that’s gentle on the fish and is resistant to tangles, rot, and mildew, making it perfect for catching and releasing larger fish.
The clear net color makes the SF Fly practically invisible underwater; hence it won’t spook the fish. The fishing net sports a unique and sturdy frame and handle made from laminated bamboo and hardwood, making it comfortable and easy to grip.
The manufacturer takes a step further to protect the net’s wooden frame by covering it with a special coating that makes it resistant to water and abrasion.
The end of the wooden handle features a ring that’s perfect for the coiled lanyard and a robust magnetic release that comes with the net combo kit, which helps keep your hand free while ensuring you do not lose your net while fly fishing.
Finally, the net is lightweight and can be easily carried around on fishing trips.
Pros:
- Lightweight build
- Floats very well
- Uniques frame design
- Durable magnetic release
- Tangle-resistant
Cons:
- Holes at the bottom of the net may allow small fish to escape
- The size of the hoop is not ideal for catching big fish
Our Take
Thanks to its soft rubber mesh, the SF Fly Fishing Net is a fitting companion for catching and releasing fish. While the large holes at the bottom of the net may not hold on to small fish, this fishing net can comfortably catch medium-sized fish.
You may read The 5 Best Fishing Carts in 2023
4. PLUSINNO Fishing Net
The PLUSINNO Fishing Net is a premium fishing net that comes in four different hoop sizes to suit your different fishing needs.
Generally, the net supports a durable hexagonal mesh structure that makes the net strong and well-built for handling most moderate-size fish. Its skid-resistant EVA handhold prevents the net from slipping off when in use.
Its netting material is made from high-quality waterproof nylon, and it has a non-absorbent coating that makes it resistant to water lodging and odor.
This netting material, while being waterproof, is also knotless, and this feature makes it resistant to hook tangles while keeping it fish-friendly. It’s a perfect net for catch-and-release fishing.
The fishing net is ultralightweight and is collapsible, which makes for easy storage. It also features a specially designed belt clip that also makes for easy storage and transportation.
We just love how easy it is to extend the PLUSINNO Fishing Net and land sizable fishes that are not near the boat or kayak.
Pros:
- Easily collapsible
- Very lightweight
- Telescopic handle
- Tangle-resistant
- Durable build
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy-sized fishes
- Doesn’t float
- No storage sack
Our Take
We believe that the PLUSINNO Fishing Net is just suitable for you IF you’re into light fishing, and its ideal setup for fish releasing and catching also gives it an edge in that area/type of fishing.
5. KastKing Madbite Landing Net
The KastKing Madbite, available in two sizes, is a high-quality landing net that’s a perfect companion for landing fish in a way that’s easy and safe for both you and the fish.
Its netting material is coated in rubber, which is water-repellant. This coating not only prevents hooks from getting caught up in it, but it’s also fish-friendly, making it suitable for easy and efficient fish release.
The fishing net features a high-strength aluminum handle, which is both lightweight and sturdy. It’s supported by a rigid rectangular hoop frame, too. This net is well-built to handle the largest fish.
We love the KastKing Madbite Landing Net because it’s easy to store, thanks to its secure and rugged patented folding design made from a combination of industrial-strength graphite aluminum and steel, which also ensures that there are no weak points on the net folding points.
The net also comes with its storage case, where you can safely store the net out of sight and out of the way in its storage case once you’re done fishing.
Another delightful addition to this net is its measuring device that’s printed on the net’s handle. So, once you land your catch, you can immediately get a measurement of its total length.
Pros:
- Easy storage
- Fish-friendly
- Lightweight
- Telescopic handle
- Measuring print
Cons:
- Not the most durable bag
- Can be challenging to fold and extend if not lubricated
- Doesn’t float
Our Take
The collapsible KastKing Madbite Landing Net is an excellent fit for you if you’re looking for a net that can effectively land different sizes of fish without any hitches. Its rubber-coated net, which is not harmful to fish, makes it perfect as a landing net when fishing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Fishing Landing Nets
Even after learning about the best fishing nets on the market, pinpointing the perfect net for your needs can still be quite challenging. To ensure the most bang for your buck, consider the factors below.
Net Material
There are various netting materials available today, with the most common ones being nylon (coated and uncoated) and rubber.
Netting material can further be divided into knotted netting and knotless netting. Ultimately, the type of fishing you’re into will largely determine the kind of net you should buy.
If you’re into catch-and-release fishing, then knotless nylon-coated nets and rubber nets are the way to go, as they pose little-to-no harm to the fish.
On the flip side, uncoated knotted nylon nets are hard and abrasive; hence, they’re harsh and can damage the fish, removing its protective slime, which is fine if you’re into fish harvesting.
An added advantage of purchasing a coated or rubberized landing net is that it dramatically reduces net tangles and hook penetration, unlike traditional nets.
Check also The 5 Best Braided Fishing Lines in 2023
Size of Net Holes
The size of the holes in the net you’re about to purchase is another important factor you don’t want to gamble with.
For small delicate fishes, you want to consider a net with small holes, and for big fishes, you want to consider getting a net with holes that are about 1.5 – 2 inches because bigger net holes equal less water resistance and easy maneuverability in the water.
Handle Length
The length of your landing net is vital; while short handles make for easy storage and handling in the water, your catch would have to be near for you to land it.
Also, short handles do not generally do well in rough waters, but long handles, on the other hand, do well in big, wild waters and can land your catch even if it’s not very near the boat or kayak.
The flip side is that long handles don’t make for easy storage and can quickly get in the way after use, but with the new type of extendable handles in town, which makes for easy storage, this should pose no problem.
Hoop Shape and Size
Considering the type of fish you intend to land is vital to choosing the right hoop size and shape. If you’re into landing multiple species, you might need to own various sizes and shapes of landing nets.
FAQs
Why Do I Need a Landing Net?
While using a landing net is not the only way of netting a fish and bringing it to the boat, it is one of the surest ways.
Other ways of landing fish like hand landing, for example, may result in you getting a hook in your hand; not fun at all.
Can I Get a Good Landing Net That’s Cheap?
Of course!! Armed with our expert reviews, you’re guaranteed to find a budget-friendly net that suits your needs.
Are Landing Nets Only for Anglers?
No. Landing nets are sure to come in handy no matter the type of fishing you’re into.
Land That Fish!
Our review started with the BUBBA landing net, known for its excellent durability and capability of withstanding years of abuse and harsh seawater conditions.
The BUBBA is also fish-friendly, thanks to its PVC-coated net. It can be utilized to land variously sized fish with easy maneuverability. It’s by far the best fishing net on the market today.
The EGO Genesis S1 series is an outstanding alternative. This series stood out to us because of its diverse net head sizes and handles that can be easily attached and detached. It’s a great net series for multi-species fishing.
Which one of the above-reviewed fishing nets do you think is the best?